Community Rallies Behind Arts Centre Expansion with ‘School of Fish’ Campaign

February 20, 2025

The Elora Centre for the Arts (ECFTA) is making a splash with its latest community initiative, The School of Fish, a new public art installation and fundraiser for the Arts Centre’s much-anticipated expansion.

Designed to celebrate both the past and future of the Arts Centre, this unique installation — which will be permanently displayed at the MacDonald Pavilion at the Arts Centre — is already inspiring donors and bringing the community together.

Created by local artist Mike Hintermeister, The School of Fish will feature 75 sculpted metal fish, each representing a generous donor — whether an individual, family, business or group — who has supported the initiative.

The School of Fish concept honours the rich history of the 1856 heritage schoolhouse that houses the Arts Centre, as well as its proximity to the Grand River. The image of fish swimming upstream symbolizes resilience and working together to build a strong foundation for future generations to thrive.

All funds raised through The School of Fish will go toward the Arts Centre’s new expansion, which will create a fully accessible and much-needed space for community gatherings, performances, exhibitions and more.

The project is already 87% funded, and the Arts Centre is seeking the public’s support to get to the finish line.

Here are just some of the community members who have signed on to participate in The School of Fish campaign:

“Supporting The School of Fish campaign is especially meaningful to our family because of our personal connection to the building. Terry attended school there when it was a traditional school, and Chloe went to Montessori there in 2002-03. It is wonderful to see this space evolving into a hub for creativity and connection. The Elora Centre for the Arts plays such an important role in inspiring our community, and we are proud to support its continued growth.” — Melissa Seagrove

“Art, creativity, expression, and inspiration — these are the things at the heart of a thriving community, all of which are so effectively fostered by the Arts Centre. Our contribution is made with the hope that the ECFTA may continue to have a strong and positive presence for generations to come.” — Kris and Caileigh Butler

“The volunteers and staff have done such a remarkable job in breathing life into the Elora Centre for the Arts with all its year-round programming. We are so fortunate to have such a facility in our own backyard. All of this will be further enhanced by what will be a beautiful, accessible space for performances and gatherings.” — Shirley and Deryk Smith

“We were excited to be part of The School of Fish, partly to celebrate three generations of our family teaching and learning in this special building, but also because we believe the Arts Centre serves a vital purpose in the community now. We all need a space for gathering, creating and exploration, and we are thrilled to see the Centre growing to fulfill its potential.” — Nancy Fischer and Wyonna Peppler

“I support the Arts Centre for many reasons. One aspect that particularly resonates with me is the focus on making art accessible for people of all abilities. My sister Jane has a developmental delay that makes participation in many activities challenging, but art is a great unifier. Anyone can both create and appreciate art at some level. And the new facility will make the ECFTA so much more accessible for those with physical disabilities. Kudos to the great folks at the ECFTA who support all people in exploring their creative side!” — Kate Anderson

How to get involved:

For a $2,500 donation — which can be given as a one-time gift or in monthly installments of $75 through 2027 — your name will be recognized alongside the installation as a permanent testament to your support for the arts in our community.

For more information or to pledge your support:

About the Elora Centre for the Arts

The Elora Centre for the Arts is a not-for-profit charitable organization dedicated to igniting creativity, fostering connection and building community through the arts.

As an arts and culture hub for Wellington County, the Centre serves more than 50,000 people every year through exhibitions, performances, community events, summer camps, affordable office and studio space for local artists and arts groups, and a range of programs and services for all ages.

Find yourself at the Centre: ecfta.ca

Media Contact:

Erinn Steringa
Marketing & Communications Manager
Elora Centre for the Arts
marketing@ecfta.ca
(416) 995-3865